Double-digit municipal increases unfair

EXPRESS deep concern over the proposed percentage increases in municipal rates, electricity, water, sewerage, and waste removal for the 2025/26 financial year. These increases are grossly disproportionate to the projected inflation and average salary adjustments.

- ADIEL ISMAIL

According to recent data, South Africa's average inflation is projected to be around 4.5% for 2025, while the annual consumer price inflation rate remains steady at 3.2% so far for 2025, with the Western Cape slightly higher at 3.9%.

Salary increases are expected to hover between 4% and 6%, while insurance and medical aid increased modestly. Against this economic backdrop, the proposed municipal increases—rates (11.3%), electricity (14.1%), water (8.1%), sewerage (9.9%), and refuse (7.6%)—are excessive and unjustified.